Madonna and Anderson Cooper embraced in a a big smooch as she presented the CNN newsman and talk show host with an honor at the New York edition of the GLAAD Media Awards at the Marriott Marquis. Cooper was the recipient of this year's Vito Russo Award, which goes to an openly gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equality.
Cooper spoke publicly about his sexuality for the first time last year with an email to journalist Andrew Sullivan. "The fact is, I'm gay, always have been, always will be, and I couldn't be any more happy, comfortable with myself, and proud," he wrote.
During his acceptance speech, Cooper thanked his boyfriend since 2009, Benjamin Maisani.
"[Being gay] has allowed me to love and be loved, to open my head and open my heart in ways I would have never predicted," he noted. "The ability to love one another, the ability to love another person is in my opinion one of God's greatest gifts and I thank God every day for the ability to give and share love with the people in my life. My family, my friends, my partner Benjamin, thank you very much."
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